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Charred Wooden Shingles and Acoustic Tiles Create A Flexible Micro Living Space

Authors:
Michele Matteo Calzana, Sara Tomasini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Acoustic Tiles Create A Flexible Micro Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and acoustic tiles, the design offers a compact living solution that balances functionality with sustainability, creating a micro space optimized for modern urban lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates sound-absorbing acoustic tiles to improve comfort in compact living.
05
Employs a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainability and resource management.

### Overview

Located in an urban environment, the project explores innovative living solutions tailored to the requirements of individuals in compact spaces. With an emphasis on functional design, the intent is to create a holistic living experience that meets both physiological and emotional needs through the integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices. The design spans an area of approximately 25 square meters, optimizing the concept of "home" while addressing the challenges of micro-living.

### Architectural Spatial Arrangement

**Modular Layout and Versatility**
The design features a modular configuration that allows for spatial flexibility, accommodating different zones for sleeping, living, cooking, and social interaction. By incorporating multifunctional furniture, the living area adapts to the occupants' daily routines. For instance, a dining table doubles as a workspace, effectively transforming based on the required activity throughout the day. The strategic arrangement also includes private and communal spaces that facilitate both individual pursuits and social engagement.

**Natural Connections and Efficient Management**
Large windows play a crucial role in enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments by maximizing natural light and views of the surroundings. The use of overhead suspension systems for kitchen and living modules aids in efficient spatial management, promoting an open and airy ambiance. The modular design allows for future adaptability, including features like sliding kitchen drawers that enhance accessibility and ease of use.

### Materiality and Sustainability

**Sustainable Material Choices**
The selection of materials prioritizes sustainability, durability, and visual appeal. Acoustic ceiling tiles designed to improve sound absorption contribute to acoustic comfort, important in smaller spaces. Components such as Dri-Design Cassette Systems not only enhance thermal performance but also provide an engaging exterior aesthetic. High-strength wooden slabs are incorporated for structural support, while steel frameworks allow for dynamic design variations.

**Environmental Integration**
To further sustainability goals, features such as rainwater harvesting systems provide efficient water management, essential for minimizing the ecological footprint of the dwelling. Additionally, the inclusion of photovoltaic panels ensures energy self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on conventional energy sources. An anaerobic digester for organic waste treatment enhances sustainable waste management, transforming waste into valuable resources and expanding the residence's ecological resilience.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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